Watches and Wonders 2022 started out strong for the Quill & Pad team as we were invited to a private chat at the Four Seasons hotel with Jean-Claude Biver, one of the most influential and important personalities in modern watchmaking. Biver, now 73 years of age, is embarking on what is probably a last hurrah: a watch brand with his own name on it, supported by and together with his son, Pierre, who is 22 years old.
Biver officially retired (or not) in January of 2019, but he has not been outside the spotlight in the subsequent years, becoming the subject of one of Phillips’ high-profile auctions – “Jean-Claude Biver: A Retrospective” – among other things.
Jean-Claude Biver discusses his new brand on The Watches TV
When the Quill & Pad team turned up at the Four Seasons for our interview with Biver, he was wearing the Rexhep Rexhepi Chronomètre Contemporain No. 1 in platinum seen in Phillips “Retrospective,” using his wrist to send a message about his future plans, which include founding an ultra high-end, handmade brand in 2022 that aims to have its own movements. “And I do not want to repeat anything I’ve already done,” he told us in his typically energetic manner.
Biver’s plan includes introducing a watch next year and already being able to produce and deliver 30-35 pieces. He also revealed he had already recruited three constructors, who I imagine are already hard at work. “These won’t be a copy of the past,” he told us, “but like past masters would work today.”
“It is a way of making his legacy exist in time,” Pierre added, meaning his father’s legacy.
Our pals at The Watches TV did a great video interview with father and son during the week, which explains everything in more detail and in the gentlemen’s own words. Please enjoy the passionate words here!
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We have all head from JC Biver over the years. It was refreshing to see him more relaxed and to meet Pierre! 22 year old has it together.
Three Q.
1) With low production I’m guessing pricing will be beyond even my stretch range of $200k?
2) Do others see this as a vanity project or a real growth concern going forward.
3). How would one start a dialogue w this new Co?
Stay well, all.
Thanks for your questions! Yes, I assume pricing will be in that range. I say more vanity project, but then again with the Bivers it’s hard to tell where anything will go. Either way, whatever comes out will be eminently collectible. And to your final question: I can put you in touch with someone, just send me an email.